Thomas Jefferson: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Everything

Renowned artist Maira Kalman sheds light on the fascinating life and interests of Thomas Jefferson, the Renaissance man and third president of the United States. Jefferson is famous for writing the Declaration of Independence but his interests were wide-ranging. He was a violinist, linguist, scientist, naturalist, botanist, mathematician, and architect. He designed his home, Monticello, and was a pioneer of healthy eating, advocating a mostly vegetarian diet. He also expanded the United States, initiated the Lewis and Clark expedition, and founded the Library of Congress. Despite his accomplishments, Jefferson had flaws, notably owning about 150 slaves despite acknowledging slavery as an 'abomination.' Maira Kalman engagingly presents this complex figure to young readers through captivating text and illustrations.